Choosing the right paint for your home often feels like a high-stakes decision. You want a finish that looks beautiful today and still looks fresh five years from now. Most homeowners eventually find themselves stuck in the classic debate of Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin Williams. Both brands lead the industry and offer high-quality paints that far outperform big-box store alternatives.
Here’s the honest truth: both Benjamin Moore paint vs Sherwin Williams deliver outstanding quality. The real difference comes down to specific product lines, where you shop, and what matters most for your project. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about pricing, performance, store experience, and which paint works best for different surfaces in your home.
Quick Comparison: Benjamin Moore vs Sherwin Williams
Feature | Benjamin Moore | Sherwin Williams |
Price Per Gallon | $55-$70 | $50-$65 |
Store Locations | 6,600+ (authorized dealers) | 4,500+ (company-owned) |
Ownership | Locally-owned retailers | Corporate stores |
Best For | Touch-ups, smooth finishes | DIY projects, self-priming |
Warranty | Lifetime (premium lines) | Lifetime (premium lines) |
Coverage | 350-400 sq ft/gallon | 350-400 sq ft/gallon |
Quality and Performance: What Really Matters
Both brands offer high quality paints that perform well, but subtle differences exist.
Coverage and Coat Requirements
Most premium lines from both brands cover surfaces in two coats. Benjamin Moore’s Aura and Regal Select provide exceptional one-coat coverage on lighter colors. Sherwin Williams SuperPaint also delivers great coverage but may need a second coat when covering dark walls with light colors.
Touch-Up Performance
This is where Benjamin Moore shines. Their Regal Select and Aura lines blend seamlessly with existing paint. You can touch up a small area months later without repainting the entire wall. Sherwin Williams paints work well too, but some users report slight sheen differences when touching up dried paint.
High-Traffic Durability
Both brands hold up well in hallways, stairs, and busy living spaces. Benjamin Moore’s Regal Select resists scuffing and cleans easily. Sherwin Williams Duration offers similar durability with added moisture resistance. For families with kids or pets, either brand works fine in satin or semi-gloss sheens.
Weather and UV Resistance
For exterior painting, both companies make durable products. Sherwin Williams Duration exterior paint performs exceptionally well in high-sun areas. Benjamin Moore Aura exterior resists chalking and fading in harsh weather. Coastal homeowners report good results with both brands after five to seven years.
Moisture Performance
Bathrooms and kitchens need paint that handles humidity. Benjamin Moore Aura Bath & Spa includes mildew-resistant additives. Sherwin Williams Emerald also resists moisture well. Both brands recommend semi-gloss or satin finishes for these spaces.
Price Comparison: Understanding the Real Cost
Benjamin Moore typically costs slightly more upfront. A gallon of Regal Select runs $66-$70 at most dealers. Sherwin Williams SuperPaint costs $53-$58 per gallon.
Cost Per Square Foot
When you factor in coverage, the difference shrinks. Benjamin Moore’s superior one-coat coverage can actually save money on larger projects. You might need two gallons of a cheaper paint where one gallon of Regal Select would work.
Long-Term Value
Premium paint from either brand lasts 7-10 years on interior walls and 5-7 years on exterior surfaces. Budget paints need repainting every 3-5 years. The math works out: spending $70 per gallon now beats spending $40 per gallon twice.
Hidden Costs
Don’t forget primer, supplies, and your time. Self-priming options like SuperPaint can eliminate primer costs on some surfaces. Benjamin Moore Advance trim paint requires less sanding between coats, saving prep time.
Store Experience and Availability
Most cities have Sherwin-Williams storefronts that the corporation owns. You can count on the same prices and stock. Employees get training from the company on the different product lines.
Benjamin Moore sells its products through paint stores and independent merchants. These establishments, which are owned by people in the area, often give customized service. Not every dealer has the full selection of products, and availability varies by location.
Both firms have great internet tools for identifying places close to you. Sherwin-Williams locations usually stay open later and on weekends. Benjamin Moore retailers could let you place special orders that are more flexible.
Product Line Showdown
Benjamin Moore Regal Select vs Sherwin Williams SuperPaint
Regal Select ($66/gallon) offers smooth application and excellent touch-up capability. SuperPaint ($54/gallon) provides self-priming coverage and good durability. For DIY projects, SuperPaint’s easier application wins. For professional results and future touch-ups, Regal Select takes the lead.
Benjamin Moore Aura vs Sherwin Williams Emerald
Both represent premium options. Aura ($80/gallon) gives incredible one-coat coverage and color depth. Emerald ($75/gallon) flows beautifully and resists stains. Professional painters appreciate Aura’s workability. Emerald works better for DIY users due to its forgiving application.
Trim and Cabinet Paint
Benjamin Moore Advance creates a furniture-like finish on trim and cabinets. It’s water-based but dries to a hard, durable surface. Sherwin Williams ProClassic also performs well but requires more skill to avoid brush marks. Both need two coats for best results.
Color Selection Made Simple
Benjamin Moore offers over 3,500 colors. Sherwin Williams provides 1,700+ options. Both companies can match any color you find elsewhere.
Color Visualization Tools
Sherwin Williams ColorSnap app lets you test colors virtually using your phone camera. Benjamin Moore’s Personal Color Viewer works similarly. Both apps help prevent costly color mistakes.
Color Consultations
Benjamin Moore charges $99 for a 30-minute in-store consultation or $50 for a virtual session. You receive professional color advice and sample swatches. Sherwin Williams offers free 30-minute virtual consultations. Their PaintPerks members can book in-home consultations for $95 with a $50 gift card included.
Paint Sheens Explained
Both brands offer similar sheen options, though names differ slightly:
- Flat/Matte: Best for ceilings and low-traffic walls. Hides imperfections but harder to clean.
- Eggshell: Works well in living rooms and bedrooms. Slight sheen with good cleanability.
- Satin: Perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and trim. Easy to wipe clean.
- Semi-Gloss: Ideal for cabinets, doors, and high-moisture areas. Very durable.
- High Gloss: Best for furniture and accent pieces. Shows every surface flaw.
Benjamin Moore’s matte finish tends to be slightly flatter than Sherwin Williams. For consistent sheen matching, stick with one brand throughout your project.
Application Experience
Self-Priming Performance
Sherwin Williams SuperPaint and Duration are genuinely self-priming on most surfaces. You can skip primer when painting over similar colors on drywall. Benjamin Moore Regal Select also works as a primer but performs best with a coat of Fresh Start primer on new drywall or dramatic color changes.
Ease of Application
Benjamin Moore paints feel thicker and creamier. They flow smoothly from brush to wall with minimal drips. Sherwin Williams paints have slightly lower viscosity. They spread easily with a roller but can splatter more during application.
Drying Time
Most interior paints from both brands dry to touch in 1-2 hours. Full cure takes 30 days. Benjamin Moore Advance trim paint dries slower (4-6 hours between coats) but creates a harder finish. Plan your project timeline accordingly.
Cleanup and Odor
Modern formulas from both companies are low-VOC and relatively low-odor. Benjamin Moore Natura offers zero-VOC options for sensitive individuals. Sherwin Williams Harmony provides similar air-quality benefits. Both clean up easily with soap and water.
Warranty Protection
Both names back their high-end lines with limited warranties that last a lifetime. Under normal circumstances, coverage includes peeling, burning, and too much fading. Wear and tear, human error, or problems with the surface prep are not covered by the warranty.
If you sell your house, Benjamin Moore’s warranty on exterior paint will follow you. Sherwin-Williams guarantees can’t be given to someone else. To keep your coverage, keep your receipts and follow the application steps.
Environmental Considerations
Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams both offer low-VOC and zero-VOC options. Benjamin Moore Natura contains zero VOCs and meets strict environmental standards. Sherwin Williams Harmony absorbs household odors and formaldehyde while maintaining low emissions.
For eco-conscious homeowners, both brands are safe for kids and pets once fully dried. Look for Green Seal or Greenguard Gold certifications on specific product lines.
What Professional Painters Say
Most painting contractors utilize both brands, depending on the needs of the project and the preferences of the client. Pros like that Benjamin Moore paints are consistent from batch to batch and work better for touch-ups. Sherwin-Williams gets credit for having store hours that are easy to work with and discount programs for contractors.
The technical support from both organizations makes it easy for contractors to fix difficulties on the job site. Store employees might go to projects to resolve problems or suggest different products.
DIY vs Professional Use
- For DIY Beginners: Sherwin Williams SuperPaint or Benjamin Moore Ben Interior offer forgiving application and self-priming convenience. Both hide minor technique mistakes well.
- For Experienced DIYers: Benjamin Moore Regal Select or Sherwin Williams Emerald provide professional results if you have good technique. Invest time in proper surface prep for best results.
- For Professionals: Both brands offer contractor-grade products. Most pros stock both and choose based on specific project needs and client budgets.
Project-Specific Recommendations
- Interior Walls: Benjamin Moore Regal Select (living rooms, bedrooms) or Sherwin Williams SuperPaint (whole-house projects).
- Kitchens and Bathrooms: Benjamin Moore Aura Bath & Spa or Sherwin Williams Emerald in satin sheen.
- Trim and Doors: Benjamin Moore Advance or Sherwin Williams ProClassic.
- Cabinets: Benjamin Moore Advance (best durability) or Sherwin Williams ProClassic (easier application).
- Exterior Siding: Sherwin Williams Duration (high-sun areas) or Benjamin Moore Aura Exterior (coastal regions).
- High Humidity Regions: Both brands perform well; choose semi-gloss sheens for added protection.
- Extreme Sun Exposure: Sherwin Williams Duration Exterior shows excellent fade resistance.
The Bottom Line: Which Should You Choose?
Choose Benjamin Moore when:
- You value exceptional touch-up capability
- You want the smoothest possible finish
- You prefer shopping at local businesses
- You’re willing to pay slightly more for premium quality
Choose Sherwin Williams when:
- You want convenient corporate store hours
- You prefer self-priming convenience
- You’re tackling a whole-house DIY project
- You value consistent product availability
Both brands deliver excellent results. Your personal preference, local dealer quality, and specific project requirements matter more than minor performance differences. You can’t go wrong with either choice.
Get Professional Results with SD Custom Painting Company
Choosing between paint brands is just the first step. Proper surface prep, application technique, and attention to detail make the real difference in how your project turns out.
San Diego Custom Painting brings 27+ years of experience working with both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams products. We know which paint works best for San Diego’s unique climate and can help you choose the right product for your specific project. Our team delivers quality interior and exterior painting services in San Diego that last for years.
We stand behind our work with a complete satisfaction guarantee. Whether you choose Benjamin Moore or Sherwin Williams, you’ll get professional results that enhance your home’s beauty and value.
Ready to transform your space? Contact SD Custom Painting today for a free consultation and detailed quote for your painting project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Benjamin Moore better quality than Sherwin Williams?
Both offer comparable quality in their premium lines. Benjamin Moore typically has slightly better touch-up capability, while Sherwin Williams offers more DIY-friendly self-priming options. Neither is objectively better.
Which paint lasts longer, Benjamin Moore or Sherwin Williams?
Premium lines from both brands last 7-10 years on interior walls and 5-7 years on exterior surfaces when properly applied. Lifespan depends more on surface prep and application than brand choice.
Is Benjamin Moore more expensive than Sherwin Williams?
Yes, slightly. Benjamin Moore averages $5-10 more per gallon than comparable Sherwin Williams products. The price difference shrinks when you factor in coverage and durability.
Can you color the match between Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams?
Yes, both brands can match each other’s colors accurately. Bring a paint chip or color code to either store for matching. Results are nearly identical in most cases.
Which brand is better for exterior painting?
Both perform well outdoors. Sherwin Williams Duration excels in high-sun areas. Benjamin Moore Aura resists fading in coastal environments. Choose based on your specific climate challenges.
Do professional painters prefer Benjamin Moore or Sherwin Williams?
Most pros use both and choose based on project needs. Painters appreciate Benjamin Moore’s consistency and Sherwin Williams’ convenient locations. Personal preference varies by contractor.
Which paint is more DIY-friendly?
Sherwin Williams SuperPaint and Emerald offer easier applications for beginners. Their self-priming formulas forgive minor technique issues. Benjamin Moore works well for experienced DIYers who want superior touch-up performance.
Are Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams stores near me?
Both brands have extensive networks. Use their website store locators to find nearby locations. Sherwin Williams operates company stores, while Benjamin Moore sells through authorized dealers.
Which brand has better customer service?
Both provide good support. Sherwin Williams offers corporate consistency. Benjamin Moore dealers often give more personalized service. Store quality varies by location for both brands.
Can I return unused paint to Benjamin Moore or Sherwin Williams?
Return policies vary. Sherwin Williams typically accepts unopened paint returns within 30 days. Benjamin Moore dealers set their own policies. Always keep receipts and ask about returns before purchasing.
Which paint has better coverage in one coat?
Benjamin Moore Aura provides the best one-coat coverage, particularly for lighter colors. Sherwin Williams Emerald also covers well. Most projects still benefit from two coats regardless of brand.
What’s the difference between Regal Select and SuperPaint?
Regal Select offers premium finish quality and excellent touch-up capability at $66/gallon. SuperPaint provides self-priming convenience and good durability at $54/gallon. Choose Regal Select for best results, SuperPaint for easier DIY application.
